Indications
Apple vinegar (apple cider vinegar) is made by fermenting apple juice, which turns the natural sugars into acetic acid. It is used as a food supplement, often in weight-management products, with the aim of supporting appetite control, digestion and blood sugar balance after meals. Evidence for weight loss is weak and based on small studies, and it works best, if at all, alongside a healthy diet and regular activity.
How It Works
Acetic acid may slow the emptying of the stomach, which can make you feel full for longer and may slightly reduce the rise in blood sugar after a meal. These effects are modest and not seen in everyone.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label. Liquid vinegar should always be diluted in a glass of water, never taken neat, and is usually taken with or just before meals. Capsules or tablets should be swallowed with plenty of water. Rinse your mouth with water afterwards to protect your teeth.
Interactions
Apple vinegar may add to the blood sugar lowering effect of diabetes medicines such as Insulin, Metformin or Glibenclamide. Large amounts over time may lower potassium, so take care with Digoxin and with diuretics such as Furosemide or Hydrochlorothiazide.
Contraindications
- Active stomach ulcer or severe acid reflux.
- Low blood potassium.
- Delayed stomach emptying (gastroparesis), which is common in long-standing diabetes.
- Children, unless a doctor advises it.
Side Effects
It may cause heartburn, nausea, throat irritation and damage to tooth enamel, especially if taken undiluted. Tablets that stick in the throat can cause burns.
Get urgent medical help if you have pain or difficulty swallowing, vomiting blood, black stools, muscle weakness or an irregular heartbeat, or signs of very low blood sugar such as sweating, shaking and confusion.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Small amounts used in food are considered safe. Weight-loss supplements are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so avoid concentrated products unless a doctor advises otherwise.
Precautions and Warnings
People with diabetes should check their blood sugar more often when starting it. Do not use it to replace prescribed treatment. Use a straw for liquid forms to protect teeth. Sudden or unexplained weight change should be checked by a doctor.
Overdose
Large amounts can cause throat and stomach burns, vomiting and low potassium. If a large amount of liquid vinegar is swallowed, especially by a child, get medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Food supplement (fermented fruit vinegar) used in weight-management products.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.